13/11/2025
Congrats to our very own FJ and Javi !
Pens Ready! Here Are Our 3rd Batch of Critics Lab Participants.
The QCinema Critics Lab, now in its third year, is a five-day intensive program that nurtures emerging film critics from across the Philippines. Led by FIPRESCI member and four-time Golden Globe voter Jason Tan Liwag, with support from critic and former FAMAS jury member Emil HofileΓ±a, the Lab offers participants the chance to watch and review films, interview filmmakers, and engage with established critics, editors, and media professionals. Participants gain full press access to QCinema and produce reviews, festival reports, podcasts, and video essays.
This yearβs participants are:
A.L. Sarino β Taguig-based writer exploring identity and community through poetry and film reviews;
Athena Venus β Aspiring critic from Rizal focused on women and contemporary society;
Benj Gabun Sumabat β Trilingual non-binary poet and essayist from Cagayan Valley and Ifugao, exploring q***r, disability, and regional narratives;
FJ Calvario β UP Cinema alumnus blending geography and cinema in his criticism;
Javi Villaluz β Student filmmaker from Quezon City examining interiority and storytelling through film;
Jia Enad β Cebuana writer probing girlhood, history, and regional life;
Kiana Flores β Freelance writer and marketing strategist exploring identity, culture, and community;
Lebron Ponce β Writer and director from Ormoc City reflecting on memory, regional cinema, and social realities.
The QCinema Critics Lab is part of the 13th QCinema International Film Festival, taking place November 12β17, 2025, supported by The Millas Hostel and Cafe, Sine Pop, Ultradogme, and Everythingβs Fine.